Two Big 12 linebackers have been named to the preseason watch list for the 2013 Butkus Award while 12 of the conference’s top linemen appear on the Rotary Lombardi Award Watch List.

First given in 1985, the Butkus Award honors the nation’s top linebacker. The award recognizes both the recipient's athletic achievments and his service to the community. The award has been presented to a Big 12 student-athlete five times since 1996.

The two Big 12 linebackers on the preseason watch list are Bryce Hager (Baylor) and Jeremiah George (Iowa State).

Finalists will be announced in November and the winner will be announced at The Home Depot College Football Awards on ESPN Thursday, Dec. 12.

The Rotary Lombardi Award was established to recognize the lasting impact Vince Lombardi had on football in America. Each year since 1970 the award has been presented to college footballs most outstanding lineman, offense or defense.